Behavioral Health Care for Seniors within the Sutter Health network

If this is an emergency, call 911.

Behavioral Health Care for Seniors

Feeling depressed or anxious does not have to be a part of getting older. If you
are suffering from a mental health issue in what are supposed to be your golden years,
let the mental health experts in the Sutter Health network help. Many mental health
disorders can be successfully treated, no matter your age.

Older people can develop all of the common mental health issues: depression, anxiety,
bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders and others.

In addition, many older people are also dealing with emotional issues that all
too often come with age: the death of a spouse or close friend, changing roles in
retirement, a reduced income, isolation and changes in a living situation. Many are
also dealing with multiple physical health issues, which can add to mental health
problems.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step to effective treatment. When you
see a mental healthcare provider in the Sutter Health network, we’ll assess
you for common mental health conditions. We’ll also do a thorough assessment
for dementia (including Alzheimer’s
disease) and other cognitive issues, as well as medical conditions such as hypertension,
coronary artery disease, kidney disease, vitamin deficiencies and diabetes.

We’ll also take a close look at all the medications you take. Common health
conditions and some medications can cause symptoms that look like mental health issues.
In some cases, a simple medication adjustment or treatment for a physical problem
can lead to big improvements in mental health.

Many people find that our group counseling and educational programs are particularly
helpful, as they allow older people—who are often isolated from others in the
community—to get support from their peers and form new social bonds. We have
groups that focus on issues such as coping with aging, coping with depression and
loneliness, grief support, dealing with family dynamics, the effects of drugs and
alcohol and stress reduction.

Case managers at some facilities can also help people to access other services
in the community, such as transportation and meal help.

There’s no reason to spend your older years feeling unhappy and isolated.
Give us a call and let us help you return to good mental health.

Patient Information

Interested in becoming a Sutter patient? Here’s what you need to know about
health plans, choosing a doctor and how to get started today.

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Mental Health Research

About 26 percent of Americans each year suffer from a mental health disorder like
depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and anorexia. Our mental
health affects our family, our job, how well we live and how soon we die. It’s
important to find effective treatments and ways to prevent the damage from mental
illness.